Governor Greg Abbott (R-TX) announced $40 million in state funding for Texas public schools to strengthen teacher recruitment, preparation and retention across the state.
Distributed through the Preparing and Retaining Educators through Partnerships (PREP) Program Allotment, the initiative will reach 411 school systems across Texas. The program aims to reduce teacher turnover and curb the state’s growing reliance on uncertified educators by expanding year-long classroom residencies, strengthening university partnerships and investing in paid mentorship programs.
“Texas educators shape future generations, and it is critical that they enter the classroom ready to succeed,” Abbott said. “This investment empowers schools and builds on Texas’ efforts to ensure that every student has access to a high-quality education.”
Established under House Bill 2 and signed into law by Abbott in June 2025, the PREP Program Allotment is part of a landmark state investment in public education and workforce development. The legislation allocated a record $8.5 billion in new public education funding, including significant investments to support teachers and strengthen the educator pipeline.
“Strong teachers are the foundation of student success, and the PREP Allotment gives Texas school systems the resources to build a stronger educator pipeline,” Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath said.
But with Election Day approaching, Abbott’s education record is facing renewed scrutiny from Democratic challenger Gina Hinojosa (D-TX), who has made strengthening public schools a cornerstone of her campaign.
Hinojosa has called for higher teacher pay, an end to the state’s private school voucher program and greater investment in neighborhood schools. She has also highlighted the financial pressures facing Texas educators and families.
“So my agenda is to secure the American dream,” Hinojosa said in a recent interview. “And I think we do that by saving Texas schools and putting money in the pocket of Texans.”
